CSLB C-33 Painting & DecoratingSafetyMedium
A worker is using a paint sprayer with highly volatile, flammable solvents. Which type of electrical equipment is required in the immediate work area to prevent ignition of flammable vapors?
- AHeavy-duty industrial-grade electrical equipment.
- BStandard residential-grade electrical equipment.
- CGround-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) protected equipment.
- DExplosion-proof or intrinsically safe electrical equipment.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. Explosion-proof or intrinsically safe electrical equipment.
When working with highly volatile, flammable solvents, the risk of ignition from electrical sparks is significant. Explosion-proof or intrinsically safe electrical equipment is specifically designed to prevent sparks or heat from igniting flammable atmospheres, making it essential in such hazardous locations. Standard, GFCI-protected, or heavy-duty equipment does not provide this level of protection against flammable vapors.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Heavy-duty equipment may be more durable but does not inherently prevent ignition in flammable atmospheres.
- B. Standard equipment can easily create sparks capable of igniting flammable vapors.
- C. GFCI protects against electric shock to personnel, not against ignition of flammable atmospheres.
Explosion-Proof Electrical Equipment
Electrical equipment designed to safely operate in hazardous locations where flammable gases or vapors may be present, by preventing internal sparks from igniting the external atmosphere.
- Enclosures are strong enough to contain an internal explosion.
- Prevents ignition of the surrounding atmosphere through flame paths.
- Required in classified hazardous locations (e.g., Class I, Division 1 areas).
Memory trick: Flammable air needs a spark-free affair.